With the continued rise in fuel cost many people may be looking for alternative destinations for summer vacations this year. Staycations have become more popular recently as people look for things to do within driving distance of their home to save on fuel and entertainment costs. Living in the Old Dominion there is no shortage of things to go do for a day trip as our state offers both beaches and mountain fun.
I was born in and have lived in Virginia for 35 years and there is still much I have not seen. I am always finding new places to see and explore that are unique to my state. With the first permanent settlement in 1607 at Jamestown being close by I grew up surrounded by history. So many historical places are in Virginia it’s hard to decide where to visit first. I always tell people a visit to the historical triangle including Williamsburg and Yorktown are wonderful places to have a day trip, a weekend stay or staycation.
I enjoy traveling and sharing my travels with others. I feel history, especially comes alive when you are immersed in it. Recently I traveled to Appomattox, Virginia for work. I had not been prior and during my stay I made time to explore the Appomattox Courthouse village and Historical Park areas. Appomattox, Virginia is a beautiful area with a small town feel and a history buff’s dream. The downtown has multiple shops and restaurants to visit. In addition the town also, is home to several food trucks and stands. Consider supporting these small businesses while you’re in town.
Appomattox Inn and Suites
Outside view of Appomattox Inn and SuitesOutside view of Appomattox Inn and Suites
While in Appomattox, Virginia I stayed at the Appomattox Inn and Suites . I found the hotel to be very clean, comfortable and economical. The lobby had some nods to the Civil War as do the hotel rooms which are decorated with pictures from the nearby battlefield and grounds. The hotel has a bar area that was open till 10pm for drinks and a restaurant named Cannonball for appetizers and small bites.
Map inside a hotel room at the Appomattox Inn and SuitesPicture of the area battlefield in hotel room at the Appomattox Inn and SuitesRoom number outside the door decorated with battlefield picture Hotel lobby inside the Appomattox Inn and Suites
If you’re into history or Civil War sites this hotel is perfect because it is very close to the Appomattox battlefield and Appomattox Courthouse village where the American Civil War came to an end in April of 1865. The American Civil War museum is a close by area attraction to this hotel as well. If you’re unfamiliar with the American Civil War or what the area has to offer the hotel staff are very friendly and the hotel has available maps and information on local attractions.
In front of the Appomattox Courthouse part of the National Historical ParkLayout and map of the grounds around the Appomattox Courthouse One of the artifact displays inside the museum at Appomattox Courthouse
The Appomattox Courthouse village and Historical Park areas are very well laid out and it is easy to follow the information trail to understand what took place here in April 1865. Even someone unfamiliar with the American Civil War will feel educated on the topics after visiting thanks to the labels, maps and informative signage. The area can be explored at one’s own pace or one can choose to join an on-site tour. The grounds also, include trails to walk and there are maps and signs available to follow for them.
Some of the buildings making up the Appomattox Courthouse village grounds. Some are open for view and others are not. Signage is very clear and maps available about the purpose of each building.
The buildings that make up the village grounds of the Appomattox Court House (some seen above) are well preserved and maintained. There were multiple guides dressed in period costume to explain the layout of the grounds and to answer any questions. The courthouse itself has a museum in it with a 17 minute video I would suggest watching it during your visit as it explains what took place on the grounds and leading up to the end of the American Civil war.
Marker for the last shot fired in the American Civil WarMarker for where Grant and Lee first met on the grounds of Appomattox Courthouse
For me seeing the markers for the last shot fired during the American Civil War and the marker for the spot where Grant and Lee met was very humbling and thought provoking. No matter a person’s views about the America Civil War I believe we can all agree that the people who fought in it were American and it is a travesty the lives that were lost on either side. The American Civil War is part of our history and I believe it is important that people educate themselves about it and preserve these hollowed grounds.
This room inside the Clover Hill Tavern was made into a makeshift printing press and here during the surrender Federal officers printed over 30,000 parole for surrender documents to be signed by Confederate soldiers
The layout and information provided at the Appomattox Courthouse village is very thorough and attention to detail is given inside the buildings. The Clover Hill Tavern for example, is set up to show what it must have looked like when one of its rooms was made into a makeshift printing press. It was here during the surrender Federal officers printed over 30,000 parole for surrender documents to be signed by Confederate soldiers. To be able to stand within the walls of this building is especially memorable for someone that loves history.
Graveyard at Appomattox Courthouse village and surrounding area.
Besides the buildings the story of the people involved in the battle comes to life on the grounds. There is a small family style graveyard on the grounds, a single grave under an old cedar tree belonging to Lafayette Meeks an area resident and a 19 grave cemetery a short walk away which has several unknown confederate soldiers, plus one unknown union soldier. It is interesting to read the documented history of these individuals and it helps to bridge the human connection to these past lives lost.
A short walk from the Appomattox Courthouse village one can also, follow signage and learn more about the events leading up to the surrender. There is an area with information about Grant’s Headquarters, open fields to walk and a small monument to see as well. Following signage by car the battlefield continues into the town of Appomattox, but wasn’t open when I visited (June 2022). The gate was locked and the area didn’t look maintained, but hopefully will open back soon to the public.
Signage on Grant’s Pursuit Information on the battle of Appomattox station
There was plenty to see and explore on the ground of the Appomattox Courthouse village, the surrounding areas and the town. I think a day trip or weekend staycation in Appomattox, Virginia would be perfect for a history lover or someone wanting to learn more about the American Civil War. I enjoyed my visit to Appomattox, Virginia and learning more about American history.
If you enjoyed my article please share/pin it and if you know someone planning a trip to Virginia please share my article with them ☺️ If you are a hotel, campground or business and would like to collaborate please contact me at krystle@takeawalkinmyflipflops.com . Thank you!
We are far too occupied with being socially accepted and could all use the break to daydream of more simpler times.
When I was a little girl having an American Girl was all the rage. I was a bit of a tomboy and I didn’t play with a lot of dolls. When I told my dad I wanted an American Girl doll he was a bit surprised. My whole childhood I was the type of child that did chores and respected direction from my elders. Doing this typically meant when I asked for something from “Santa”, I most definitely was going to see it under the Christmas tree.
Standing outside the American Girl Store in Tyson’s Corner Mall
Christmas that year came and went through without any American Girl dolls. Everything else on my wishlist however was underneath the tree. Birthdays and Christmases went by and I kept asking for an American Girl doll. When the American Girl store opened in Chicago in 1998 I knew I was destined to get a doll because it was somewhere we traveled and visited. I’d cut out ads of the store information and talk about all the cool things a child could do there every time I knew we would be close by.
Kaya doll at the American Girl in Tyson’s Corner MallA kitchen play set at the American Girl in Tyson’s Corner MallAmerican Girl doll display in Tyson’s Corner Mall
Time went by and another American Girl store opened in 2003 in New York. At this point, I was a junior in High School and not a little girl focused on dolls. I had stopped asking for an American Girl. I later learned my dad had some issues with the American Girl brand and didn’t want to support them and that is why he hadn’t purchased a doll from them.
At almost 18 years old after my dad had taken a trip to New York I was finally given Josephine. This was the doll I had so desperately wanted ten years prior. She was beautiful and I appreciated the craftsmanship, but that excited feeling I’d had thinking about her at 8 wasn’t there. I honestly didn’t feel much of anything when I unwrapped the box.
Fast forward sixteen years later my husband and I were planning a trip to DC. I had mentioned the American Girl store at Tyson’s Corner. He insisted that we go and that I finally get to check out an American Girl Doll store in person. We even made reservations to eat inside the American Girl Cafe.
I must admit as a 35-year-old with no children or grandchildren I felt a bit silly walking into an American Girl store. All the magic and excitement I had over visiting didn’t flood back to me as an adult. We walked around and looked at all the dolls. My husband offered to buy me a doll of my choice, but I couldn’t justify spending $300 as an adult for something that would only sit up on a shelf. I found myself a bit sad, desperately wishing someone would have thought it was that important when I was 8.
Pretzel Bites at the American Girl Cafe in Tyson’s Corner MallThe decorations inside the American Girl Cafe at Tyson’s Corner Mall are whimsical.Menu at the American Girl Cafe in Tyson’s Corner MallThe napkin ring at the American Girl Cafe in Tyson’s Corner Mall doubles as a take home hair tieInside the American Girl Cafe in Tyson’s Corner
We waited for our lunch reservation time. The American Girl Cafe is so cute with loads of pink. They have chairs for the American Girl dolls, food items to share with the dolls and make a big deal out of celebrating for children. The American Girl Cafe even has dolls for use by children who might not have one yet, so they can experience the fun. The American Girl Cafe also has adult drinks and the food was well prepared and tasty. It was fun watching the little girls get their dolls situated and offer up food and drink to them. Watching and daydreaming it brought me back to days of tea parties and dress-up.
Cotton Candy milkshake at the American Girl Cafe in Tyson’s Corer.
For a few moments, I was that 8-year-old girl again wide-eyed and full of dreams, unspoiled by society and the demands of life. It may sound ridiculous, but it was somewhat therapeutic. This was an experience that deep inside I felt I had missed out on. Sitting there looking around I felt as if a void had been fulfilled and I am glad we went.
If you have a toy you didn’t get as a child you can still go buy it if you think it would give you joy or go visit a special place from your childhood. It is healthy to want to feel those feelings again and to connect back to the innocence that once was and bring back some childhood nostalgia. We are far too occupied with being socially accepted and could all use the break to daydream of simpler times.
I have heard a lot about Great Wolf Lodge since it was built in Williamsburg, VA and it has been one of my places to visit for a while. As an adult in my mid-30s with no children, I kept looking over many reviews, comments, concerns, and complaints dealing with topics related exclusively to people with children. I was hesitant to book a stay at Great Wolf Lodge because of the lack of reviews about adult-only visits. I wasn’t sure if there would be enough for adults to do or if it would be too noisy for us.
Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia a break from adulting!
Make no mistake Great Wolf Lodge’s main focus is on children, but we found there was plenty to do to keep us (adults) entertained as well. I felt that a review of the lodge from an adult without children was due. I should mention we are kids at heart and love theme parks. From the time we arrived at Great Wolf Lodge, we honestly had a blast! For our first visit, we chose to go during Halloween. We figured a lot of people might take their children out and maybe not as many people would be vacationing. During our visit, we found the lodge to be busy, but not packed. (Note: The resort did have Halloween activities for children including trick or treating for Halloween.)
Outside the entrance of Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Va. Wolf ears hey why not!
Inside the lobby of Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaOutside Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaGreat Wolf Lodge is beautifully laid out and definitely has a rustic feel to it.
Upon arrival, I was shocked at the homey feel of the lodge and the lack of a smell of chlorine from the water park. In the lobby when we arrived was a group of children on the floor in front of the fireplace doing a staff-led craft. We used the mobile self-check-in on the app and when we arrived our room was ready for us. Upon check-in in we received an envelope with our wristbands for our stay. We opted to link our credit card to our wristbands putting a $100 hold on the account for charges. This is something to consider if you don’t want to lug around a credit card while you’re at the water park.
Lodging at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia
Family Fireplace Suite at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Va
The wristband is also, your room key and will unlock the door outside the lodge going to the parking lot as well (this feature is not on the children’s bands). The lodge was busy, but it wasn’t overwhelming. We easily located our room. The family fireplace suite was spacious with 2 queen beds, a full-size bathroom with a shower/tub combo, a kitchen area with a microwave and mini fridge, a sofa, 2 TVs, and a fireplace which we especially. The lodge has many types of rooms including themed rooms too with cabin bunk areas for children.
Spring Breakout at Great Wolf Lodge Willamsburg, Virginia and a tour of the Majestic Bear Suite
Dining at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
Food Options at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia
There are several dining options at Great Wolf Lodge without having to leave the lodge. I liked being able to stay on the property and relax with some bar drinks, not having to worry about taking an Uber or taxi. The Loose Moose is off of the main lobby and is a buffet-style restaurant with a bar. They are open for breakfast and then close and reopen at 5 for dinner. We ate here twice during our stay for dinner and enjoyed our food and our bar drinks. Great Wolf Lodge has a frozen Jack and Coke that is good by the way!
The bar menu and some of the food options we tried while eating at the Loose Moose inside Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia. Themed food (like these for Halloween) are normally on the buffet.
I was most impressed at their concern for dietary restrictions. A staff member came out and went over items that didn’t contain any meat for me and addressed any concerns I had on vegetarian or vegan choices. The salad bar area was full of delicious fresh veggies, pasta salads, potato salad, and a variety of greens. They had a great selection of side dishes too including veggies and an area for main dishes/meats (fish was an option too). Everything we had here was flavorful and tasted fresh.
Other choices for food include pizza and take-and-go salads/sandwiches downstairs from the lobby called the Hungry as a Wolf. There is also, a walk-up restaurant in the water park area called Buckets, a waterpark bar, and an ice cream parlor beside Hungry as a Wolf. In addition, the resort has its own Dunkin’ Donuts in the lobby and we had donuts from there one morning. I enjoyed the ability to place an order on my phone from the resort dining and then pick up my food. It made it hassle-free even to order from our room by using the app.
Turkey and avocado sandwich with Cajun fries from Buckets. They also, have salads and snack options like Bavarian pretzels.Dunkin’ Donuts inside the lobby at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaFresh fruit and Greek yogurt from Buckets
During our time inside the water park, we enjoyed food from Buckets as well as drinks from the bar inside. The bar also had the football games showing on two TVs on Sunday. Just outside the parking lot of Great Wolf Lodge is another food option in the form of a non-lodge restaurant called Sportsman’s Grill. The restaurant is within walking distance of Great Wolf Lodge and stays with the wilderness theme.
Frog legs at Sportsman’s Grill Williamsburg, Virginia Venison stew Sportsman’s Grill Williamsburg, VirginiaSteak and potato at Sportsman’s Grill Williamsburg, VirginiaTuna fish sandwich with fries Sportsman’s Grill Williamsburg, VirginiaThe menu at Sportsman’s Grill is unique with items such a frog legs and venison stew. They also, had generous cuts of beef and seafood options such as a tuna fish sandwich.
Sportsman’s Grill is similar to a game lodge and the walls are covered in taxidermy animal trophies. The menu is unique too with items such as frog legs, venison stew, and alligator gumbo. They also had a nice beer/wine list. We enjoyed having lunch there during our stay.
Things to do at Great Wolf Lodge (Paid Activities)
In addition to the water park, there are many fun activities to do at Great Wolf Lodge. Most are geared directly towards children like the MagiQuest game which has a spot to buy a wand and play an interactive game through the resort. However, as adults, we enjoyed several of the other activities. The lanes at Ten Paw Alley were shorter and it was similar to duckpin bowling with smaller balls and short pins. This bowling was a bit more challenging than normal bowling and we had fun playing.
Playing laser tag at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaMy Mom bowling at Ten Paw Bowling inside Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaHalloween at Build a Bear Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaEnjoying some of the (paid) activities inside Great Wolf Lodge including Build a Bear, the Northern Light’s Arcade, Ten Paw Alley and Laser Tag during Halloween at Great Wolf Lodge.
We also visited the Build a Bear during our stay where I stuffed my wolf plush to take home. I’m already a Build-a-Bear fan and was excited about the exclusive options only offered at Great Wolf Lodge. We enjoyed playing a game of laser tag and even had the whole game to ourselves one night. For late-night fun, the Northern Lights arcade is open late, is adult friendly and has many fun traditional-style games that bring back nostalgic feelings.
The price of the tokens was typical of arcades and with $50 worth we enjoyed chasing each other on motorcycles, racing each other in cars, and playing skeetball and basketball against each other. Many of the arcade games give out tickets to redeem for prizes and several of the claw machines allow for play until a prize is won. I felt like a kid again playing some of the games all while enjoying drinks we had gotten from the Loose Moose bar.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park in Williamsburg, Virginia
Inside the water park at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia
On our first day, we didn’t go into the water park until around 4. They were open from 9-7 the days we visited. On our first time inside we walked around and visually checked out the area. Though the water park was busy we didn’t feel overwhelmed by the foot traffic or by children enjoying the fun.
We opted to go to bar and get some tropical drinks and then go into the 21+ hot tub. The adults-only hot tub is huge and near a family hot tub for people who want to sit with their children. It’s a cozy area and we enjoyed relaxing and having a few drinks before going back to our room when the water park closed.
For those not staying at the lodge there were ample lockers to rent to store belongings, a small necessities shop for things one might have forgotten to bring, and showers/changing rooms. The layout of the park has multiple restrooms too and I never saw people having to wait.
Forget something or want to take home a souvenir? Visit Buckhorn Exchange gift shop inside Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia
On our full day at the water park, we rode all of the rides and enjoyed the Howlin’ Tornado the most. Though the rides are inside the water park doesn’t skimp on the size of the tubes and slides with many going outside of the building and looping back in. We liked that there were areas just for smaller children to play, areas geared towards teens/adults, and things families could ride or enjoy together like the wave pool all under the same roof. The Crooked Creek lazy river was one of our favorites and between it and visits to the hot tub, we felt relaxed. We enjoyed being able to ride things together in a double tube.
Review of Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
We don’t live far from Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia so we didn’t venture out during our stay and are familiar with the area. However, for adults that haven’t been to Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, or nearby Yorktown this could be the perfect hotel to use as a base. The lodge rooms can be accessed without going into the children’s areas or the water park for a quieter stay. The rooms are very spacious and clean. The location of the Great Wolf Lodge would make the lodge great for conferences.
I would highly recommend a trip to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Va. We are kids at heart and we can’t wait to go back!
Overall we enjoyed our stay at Great Wolf Lodge and would go again. If you’re looking for a quiet couples weekend this might not be the place for you, but if you love adventure and feeling like a kid again I would highly recommend a trip to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Va. I didn’t see anyone else visiting without children or grandchildren, but I don’t feel like people without children are excluded from the lodge. This was a perfect staycation for us as adults and we were glad we tried Great Wolf Lodge out. This trip was a good break from adulting and who couldn’t use more days like that?
Return Visits to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
Valentine’s treats during a February visit to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
New updated stage area for the children’s events at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia (2023)
Since first writing this blog we have returned to Great Wolf Lodge five times and even went to check out the holiday decorations for Snowland. I honestly like going in the off-season when the lodge is less crowded. During our most recent trips, I have noticed staffing issues have affected Great Wolf Lodge like many establishments. I have seen some ride and amenity closures like the bar running on limited hours or closing down some rides to alternate staff. Guests still get a quality experience but have to be patient with the staff of Great Wolf Lodge.
On our latest visit I liked how the entry to the lobby at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg had been updated. The lobby was always very crowded during the children’s event times with people checking in/being at the front desk and parents watching their children. Now a designated area with a stage has been made for the children’s programs in the lobby and it is not blocking the entryway to the resort. This lobby update was very much needed. I hope to see Great Wolf Lodge continue to improve and renovate the lodge.
Spring Breakout at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
If you have any questions about my visits to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia drop me a comment.
The saying, “You can’t make everyone happy; you’re not pizza,” resonates deeply, especially when planning a trip. Just like pizza, with its vast array of toppings, our travel preferences can vary significantly. Trying to create an itinerary that caters to everyone’s tastes and desires can quickly become overwhelming and often leads to frustration. It’s essential to recognize that while striving for universal satisfaction is admirable, it can sometimes feel impossible.
In my experience, the challenge of accommodating different tastes and perspectives can lead to stress and conflict among friends or family. When you’re tasked with planning a group trip, each person may have their unique must-see destinations, desired activities, and expectations. The reality is that you cannot please everyone all the time, and attempting to do so can often leave you feeling exhausted and unfulfilled.
To create a trip that feels rewarding for all, here are some tips to help you balance everyone’s desires and make the planning process smoother:
Involve Everyone in the Planning
Start by gathering input from all participants right at the beginning. A simple survey or a group discussion can help capture everyone’s interests and priorities. This ensures that everyone has a voice in the planning process, making it easier to find common ground.
Prioritize Key Activities
Identify a few non-negotiable activities or destinations that excite everyone in the group. These shared goals can serve as the foundation of your itinerary, helping to create a sense of shared purpose. By focusing on these highlights, you can build a framework that satisfies the group’s core interests.
Build a Flexible Itinerary
Structure your trip with a mix of group activities and individual free time. Include scheduled events but also allow for opportunities to explore independently. This way, everyone can enjoy what they love most without feeling constrained by the group.
Consider Everyone’s Preferences
Balance the itinerary by including a variety of activities. Some individuals may crave adventure while others prefer relaxation or cultural experiences. By incorporating different types of activities, you can cater to diverse interests within the group.
Communicate Clearly
Keep communication open throughout both the planning phase and the trip. Encourage group discussions where everyone can express their thoughts or suggest changes. Address any concerns promptly to maintain a harmonious atmosphere.
Be Ready to Compromise
Remember that not everyone will be able to get their way all the time. Be prepared to make compromises and adjust plans as needed. Sometimes the best moments come from unexpected detours or changes in plans that allow the group to discover new experiences together.
Celebrate Togetherness
Remind everyone that the primary goal of the trip is to enjoy each other’s company. Focusing on shared experiences, such as group meals or evenings around a campfire, can help strengthen bonds and create lasting memories, even if everyone doesn’t get their first choice of activities.
While planning a successful group trip requires patience and flexibility, the connections and experiences shared along the way are what truly matter. While you may never fully satisfy everyone, keeping lines of communication open, embracing compromises, and maintaining a focus on shared goals can create a win-win situation. By understanding that the journey is more about the relationships built and moments shared rather than the specific itinerary, you can foster deeper connections and unforgettable experiences for everyone involved. Ultimately, the joy of travel lies in the blend of diverse perspectives coming together, creating a richer tapestry of memories that everyone can cherish.
The Virginia Zoo offers a unique opportunity to see wild animals up close that most people would never get to experience otherwise. For many, a visit to the Virginia Zoo is a chance to get a firsthand look at exotic creatures from around the world that they have only read about or seen pictures of before.
Being able to observe these animals in person provides a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diversity of wildlife on our planet. At the Virginia Zoo, the animals live in enclosures designed to closely mimic their natural habitats, allowing visitors to see how they truly live in the wild. Watching the animals move, play, interact, and go about their daily activities is an unforgettable experience, especially for children.
One of the cheetahs inside their enclosure at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va.
Beyond seeing the animals themselves, the Virginia Zoo also provides educational opportunities through informative signs, exhibits, and presentations from zookeepers. People can learn about the behaviors, characteristics, and conservation needs of each species. Some zoos have unfortunately become infamous for animal treatment, but good ones like the Virginia Zoo, have programs for animal conservation, educational, and preservation efforts. Accredited zoos play an important role in protecting endangered species through breeding programs to maintain genetic diversity. A visit to the Virginia Zoo is a fun, exciting, and inspiring family activity.
Visiting the Virginia Zoo Norfolk is an exciting, educational adventure for the whole family. Tickets for the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va are sold in advance and at the gate. As you walk through the zoo’s winding pathways, you’ll encounter a diverse array of animals from all around the world. The zoo is divided into geographical regions, with animals from Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. Make your way through each section and observe the animals in habitats designed to mimic their natural environments.
Tiger Trail at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va
The zoo’s African exhibit features magnificent lions lounging on rocks and tall giraffes grazing on tree leaves. Over in the Asia exhibit, you’ll see majestic tigers pacing in their enclosures and red pandas climbing in trees. The reptile house has a vast collection of snakes, lizards, and crocodilians. Don’t miss the daily animal feedings, where zookeepers provide enrichment and interact with creatures like giraffes and parrots.
The petting zoo allows kids to get up close with gentle barnyard animals. With new baby animals being born each season, every visit offers something new to discover. The Virginia Zoo Norfolk provides an immersive glimpse into the amazing world of wildlife.
Giraffes at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, Va.
Going during the week I feel there were fewer people than during the weekend. This may be something you want to consider when planning a visit. The Virginia Zoo offers a wide variety of fun and educational activities for visitors of all ages. As soon as you arrive, be sure to pick up a map at the front entrance so you can easily navigate the different exhibits.
Food Options at the Zoo
Dining at the Virginia Zoo is a unique and exciting experience that allows guests to enjoy delicious food alongside incredible animal exhibits. Guests can sip coffee and nibble on pastries for breakfast while watching the zoo’s diurnal animals begin their day. For lunch, the grill offers burgers, sandwiches, salads, and cold drinks perfect for picnicking. Breathtaking views of zebras on the adjoining savanna make for a memorable meal.
Families appreciate the kid-friendly options, efficient service, and choices like chicken tenders and mac and cheese. There are plenty of snack options too. I enjoyed a gluten and dairy-free chocolate-covered banana which comes in plain, sprinkles, strawberry/vanilla, or cookies and cream flavors. Whether enjoying a casual lunch or a snack, the Virginia Zoo’s dining options allow guests to satisfy their appetites while surrounded by amazing wildlife.
Zoo Activities
After refueling, head over to the reptile house to see snakes, lizards, frogs, and more. Don’t miss the daily keeper chats where zoo staff provide insider info about different species. Be sure during your visit to take a ride on the zoo train for a quick overview of all the exhibits.
The train is an extra $2 per person and isn’t included with zoo admission. The train goes around the outside area of the animals and a few can be seen if they are in certain areas of their pens. Be sure to check online before you visit for special events happening at the zoo. With so many animals to visit and activities to enjoy, you’ll make lasting memories during a fun-filled day at the Virginia Zoo.
Be sure to visit the Virginia Zoo gift shop
The gift shop at the Virginia zoo is a fun place for guests to browse and purchase souvenirs to commemorate their visit. Upon entering, you are greeted with displays of stuffed animals modeled after zoo residents like tigers, giraffes, and monkeys. These plush toys come in all sizes, from tiny keychains to jumbo versions big enough to cuddle.
Along the back wall are racks of apparel including t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hats featuring the zoo’s logo and images of animals. Brightly-colored shirts with whimsical graphics of elephants, zebras, and lions make fun mementos for kids and adults alike. Postcard racks showcase scenic photos taken around the zoo so guests can send virtual postcards to friends and family.
The shop also sells reusable water bottles, backpacks, and other practical items branded with the zoo’s name and motifs. At the counter, you’ll also find packaged snacks. The gift shop is conveniently located near the exit so guests can browse for souvenirs on the way out after a memorable day at the zoo. With its wide selection of keepsakes, apparel, and novelties, the Virginia Zoo gift shop offers the perfect opportunity for visitors to take home a piece of their experience.
Flowers on display while riding the train at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk,Va
Overall this was a wonderful way to get outside on a beautiful day and to enjoy nature. I would highly recommend a trip to the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk, VA if you live in Virginia or are visiting. My tip is to look at the zoo’s website to confirm what you want to see is open when planning your visit. I know I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the zoo!
The Virginia Hype Girl: Uncovering the Best of Virginia + Nearby Adventures! 
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